Asenati Lole-Taylor
Spokesperson for Social Policy/Welfare
August 14, 2014

Blind Eye to Crime Puts Young Peope at Risk

National is ignoring serious crime in New Zealand and putting young people at risk, says New Zealand First.

“Signs of intensifying crime have been staring them in the face, yet it has taken a string of violent deaths in the past three months for the Government to take action,” says Spokesperson for Social Policy Asenati Lole-Taylor.

“Concerns about at-risk young people were brought before the Minister of Social Development by New Zealand First and members of the community at the Social Services Select Committee in Parliament – but our appeals fell on deaf ears.

“Now, after five high-profile murders in West Auckland alone, it appears the Minister has suddenly found $200,000 to help prevent anti-social behaviour in the area.

“It’s outrageous for the Government to say criminal activity is not getting worse on the one hand then throw money at it – it’s merely hush money for West Auckland ahead of the election.

“Persistent young offenders, who come from families that are overloaded with problems and under-equipped to cope, have emerged under National.

“These problems include substance abuse, housing troubles, unemployment, mental health difficulties, family violence, neglect and lack of education.

“The Government needs to address these if they want to see a positive change among at-risk young people in our communities,” says Mrs Lole-Taylor.

ENDS

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